Explore the expressive possibilities of the electric viola with pioneering performer and innovator Rudolf Haken. This engaging workshop will demonstrate the instrument’s expanded sonic palette, including extended techniques, electronic effects,...
Join Jeffrey Boynton for a special 5 Rhythms workshop honoring the life and legacy of violist and educator Karen Ritscher. Rooted in movement, rhythm, and creative expression, this guided session...
This session introduces Paul Rolland’s motion-based pedagogy as applied to viola bowing, with a focus on developing freedom, balance, and ease of movement. Rolland’s principles—natural posture, balanced arm motion, and...
This interactive workshop introduces violists to Pauline Oliveros's "Deep Listening" technique and structured improvisation as tools for expanding artistic expression and enhancing practice effectiveness. Participants will engage in hands-on activities...
Nicole Melrose leads this thoughtful workshop exploring trauma-informed approaches to music teaching, learning, and performance. Participants will gain insight into creating supportive, inclusive environments that promote safety, trust, and artistic...
As classical music includes so much one-on-one teaching, many of our skills are learned practically through oral tradition. Because of this, many teachers assume that their students will “figure it...
Playing simultaneous melodies in double stops or hidden polyphony in single musical lines of Baroque pieces often presents technical and musical challenges. Most solo works by Bach, Telemann, and other...
A popular phrase these days is “there is no such thing as advanced technique – only advanced applications of basic technique.” The pathway to artist-level viola playing is predicated on...
This interactive workshop will be an introduction to Body Mapping, a somatic modality which grew out of the Alexander Technique. Developed by Barbara Conable in the 1990s, Body Mapping helps...
In this workshop, I will explore the profound benefits of Qigong for viola players, emphasizing physical wellness and enhanced performance. Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice involving gentle movements and breath...
The Community-Centered Violist highlights the collaboration of Kimia Hesabi and Tiffany Richardson as violists, teaching artists, and arts administrators. The session showcases our community-centered work in various settings and offers...
Creating a sense of ease on both ends of the dynamic spectrum is a worthy goal for any violist: while the acoustic limitations of the instrument can lead to strain...